The polymorphisms in serotonin-related genes (5-HT₂A and SERT) and the prevalence of depressive symptoms in obese patients

Translational genomic research: the role of genetic polymorphisms in MBSR program among breast cancer survivors (MBSR[BC])

Genetic variations of breast cancer survivors (BCS) may contribute to level of residual symptoms, such as depression, stress, fatigue, and cognitive impairment. The objective of this study was to investigate whether particular single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) moderated symptom improvement resulting from the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Breast Cancer (MBSR[BC]) program. An overarching goal of personalized medicine is to identify individuals as risk for disease and tailor interventions based on genetic profiles of patients with diseases including cancer. BCS were recruited from Moffitt Cancer Center and University of South Florida's Breast Health Program and were randomized to either the 6-week MBSR(BC) program (n = 92) or Usual Care (n = 93). Measures of symptoms, demographic, and clinical history data were attained at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. A total of 10 SNPs from eight genes known to be related to these symptoms were studied using genomic DNA extracted from blood. Our results were examined for effect sizes, consistency, and statistical significance (p < .05). Three SNPs (rs4680 in COMT, rs6314 in HTR2A, and rs429358 in APOE) emerged as having the strongest (though relatively weak) and most consistent effects in moderating the impact of the MBSR program on symptom outcomes. Although effects were generally weak, with only one effect withstanding multiple comparisons correction for statistical significance, this translational behavioral research may help start the identification of genetic profiles that moderate the impact of MBSR(BC). The ultimate goal of this study is the development of personalized treatment programs tailored to the genetic profile of each patient.

Examining the effect of 5-HTTLPR on depressive symptoms in postmenopausal women 1 year after initial breast cancer treatment

BACKGROUND

Depression following the diagnosis of breast cancer has been well documented, and occurs in as many as 40% of women. The serotonin transporter gene SLC6A4 and its functional polymorphism 5-HTTLPR have been extensively studied as factors in the development of depression. Many research studies have demonstrated conflicting results, and the contribution of 5-HTTLPR to depression is unclear.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to compare the relationship between depressive symptoms and serotonin transporter gene polymorphisms between women with early-stage breast cancer 1 year following initial diagnosis and surgery and matched controls.

METHODS

Participants (N = 125), included postmenopausal women following breast cancer surgery (n = 80) and age-and education-matched healthy controls (n = 45). The genetic elements of interest were the long (LA) and short (S) alleles of 5-HTTLPR, as well as the single nucleotide polymorphism rs25531 A > G within the L-allele (LG). DNA was extracted from either blood or saliva and analyzed for the SLC6A4 polymorphisms. The outcome measures for this longitudinal study included Beck Depression Inventory scores and physical function domain scores from the Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36.

RESULTS

Women with breast cancer demonstrated greater depressive symptomatology and decreased physical function compared to healthy controls. The LA/LA genotype was associated with increased depressive symptomatology in the overall sample and within the controls. The LA/LA genotype appeared with greater frequency in the experimental group, but the relationship with increased depressive symptoms was not observed. Physical function was a significant (p < 0.00) predictor of depressive symptoms in both groups at 12 months.

CONCLUSION

The relationship between 5-HTTLPR and depressive symptomatology in breast cancer patients remains unclear. A potential clinical application includes monitoring physical function and addressing increased depressive symptoms as physical function declines.

GENETIC TRIGGERS AND NEUROHUMORAL MESSENGERS OF POSTOPERATIVE INTESTINAL PARESIS, ITS VALUE IN PREDICTION, PREVENTION AND TREATMENT

The aim of research: to study the causes and mechanisms of postoperative intestinal paresis on the base of assessment of genetic determinism of neurohormonal processes which regulate the contractile ability of the intestines, to determine their role for the choice of treatment tactics. The study presents data about connection between variants of SERT gene, which regulates the reuptake of serotonin, and its concentration in blood plasma and the probability of occurrence of postoperative intestinal paresis. This made it possible not only to predict the occurrence of postoperative disorders of motor-evacuation function of the intestines, but also to improve the algorithms of prevention and pathogenetic based treatment.